"Consumers want to shop, browse and share information in an environment
that is respectful of their personal information," McCain said at a news
conference. "Our legislation sets forth a framework for companies to
create such an environment and allows businesses to continue to market and
advertise to all consumers, including potential customers."

The new bill, backed by the Obama administration, may also
make it harder for sites to use personal information to target and create
profiles on individual internet users.

The Commercial
Privacy Bill of Rights [PDF] would provide consumers with more control over their
personal information and how that data is collected and shared with third
parties.

Companies would need an individual's consent to collect names, e-mail addresses,
and credit card numbers if the bill becomes law. They would also need
consent to collect information about religion, sexual identity, medical
conditions and other sensitive information. An offer to opt out of data collection would be
required for users as well.

"Our bill seeks to respect the ability of businesses to advertise, while
also protecting consumers' personal information," said McCain.

"There is a single light of science, and to brighten it anywhere is to brighten it everywhere." -- Isaac Asimov